PHF introduces GPS player tracking technology to modernise Pakistan hockey

LAHORE: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has taken another major step towards modernising the national game by introducing a state-of-the-art GPS player tracking system to scientifically monitor and improve players' performance.

The advanced technology will allow coaches and support staff to analyse players' fitness, endurance, speed, workload, recovery and overall physical condition during both training sessions and competitive matches.

The data collected through the system will help coaching staff develop personalised training programmes, reduce the risk of injuries and ensure players consistently perform at their highest level.

The GPS tracking system will initially be deployed with the Pakistan senior men's national team before being gradually introduced to the junior national teams and other PHF development squads as part of the federation's long-term high-performance programme.

The initiative underlines the PHF's commitment to embracing world-class sports science and modern performance analysis tools in its efforts to prepare Pakistan's teams for international competitions and restore the country's status among the world's leading hockey nations.

The latest development follows the Pakistan Hockey Federation's (PHF) recent appointment of an internationally renowned high-performance coaching team as part of its long-term strategy to revive Pakistan hockey.

The appointments will take effect after contractual formalities are completed.

Dutch coach Herman Kruis has been named Overall National Hockey Coaching Advisor and Head Coach, bringing decades of elite coaching experience to oversee Pakistan's coaching philosophy, establish technical standards, advise the senior national team management and develop a long-term high-performance pathway.

David Dwyer has been appointed Fitness and High-Performance Coach to introduce modern sports science, strength and conditioning, injury prevention and performance management systems.

Adnan Zakir will serve as Junior Talent Identification Coach, leading a nationwide programme to discover and develop young players.

Bob Johan Veldhof has been appointed Goalkeeping Coach to modernise goalkeeper training, while sports psychologist Chris Bowen will lead the team's mental performance programme, focusing on resilience, leadership, motivation and psychological preparation.